If you've ever paid full price for sneakers at Journeys, you're probably doing it wrong. The good news? Journeys follows a predictable sales rhythm — and once you know the pattern, you’ll never overpay for Vans, Converse, or Dr. Martens again.

Smart shoppers know that timing is everything. Before buying, it’s always worth checking Groupon's latest Journeys discount codes. But the real savings come from understanding when Journeys drops its biggest markdowns each season.

🌱 Spring: New Arrivals & Quiet Discounts (March–May)

Spring is when Journeys brings in new seasonal styles — which means two things: full-price fresh drops and quiet markdowns on last year’s leftovers. It’s not their biggest sale season, but you can still score deals if you know where to look.

Where the Deals Happen

Spring discounts usually show up in the clearance section as stores make space for summer styles. Think off-season boots, winter leftovers, or last year’s spring colors in Vans and Converse.

Expected Savings

Expect modest but worthwhile markdowns — usually 20–30% off select sneakers and boots. It’s the best time to buy Dr. Martens before summer pricing bumps up again.

☀️ Summer: Back-to-School Deals (July–August)

July and August are prime saving months at Journeys. Back-to-school shopping drives major markdowns, with sneakers sometimes starting as low as $19.98.

Why This Season Saves You Money

Journeys targets students with budget-friendly pricing, so deals are built into the season. You’re not just catching random markdowns — you’re getting discounts designed for shoppers who need new kicks fast.

What to Expect

Classic Vans, Converse, and even some Dr. Martens often get included. Shop early July for the best size range — by late August, popular sizes disappear fast.

🍂 Fall: Summer Clearance + Early Holiday Promos (August–October)

Fall might be the most underrated time to save. Between summer clearance and early holiday promotions, you get two waves of discounts.

Summer Clearance (August–September)

Sandals, canvas sneakers, and lightweight styles hit their lowest prices as Journeys transitions to fall shoes. This overlaps perfectly with back-to-school sales — a double win for sneaker shoppers.

Holiday Warm-Up Sales (October)

October is when you’ll notice early markdowns on boots and lifestyle sneakers. These aren’t Black Friday-level deals, but they’re great for planning ahead.

❄️ Winter: Big Boot Discounts & Black Friday (November–February)

Winter is when Journeys rolls out the heavy hitters — Black Friday, Cyber Monday, and massive clearance events.

Black Friday & Cyber Monday (November)

Boots often start at $29.98 and sneakers at $39.98, with discounts up to 65% off select items. Deals usually go live the Wednesday before Black Friday and run through Cyber Monday. Check out our full Black Friday guide here.

Winter Clearance (January–February)

This is the moment for Dr. Martens, Timberlands, and other cold-weather favorites. January delivers the deepest markdowns of the year as stores clear out heavier styles.

Brand Sale Patterns: Vans, Converse & Dr. Martens

Each brand has its own sale cycle — especially helpful if you’re loyal to a specific style.

Vans & Converse

These two follow a similar pattern: great deals during back-to-school season and solid markdowns during summer clearance. Classic styles often pop into site-wide promos.

Dr. Martens

Dr. Martens rarely go on deep discount, but when they do, it’s usually during Black Friday or winter clearance. If you're hunting a large size or popular style, buy early — they sell out first.

How to Track Your Favorite Styles

Bookmark Journeys’ sale page and check weekly. Styles rotate often, and if you see your size at a good price, don’t wait — popular sizes vanish fast.

Year-Round Ways to Save at Journeys

All Access Rewards

Journeys’ All Access Rewards program is a must-join. Members get free shipping, $10 off $75+, birthday perks, and exclusive member-only deals.

Student Discounts & Free Shipping

Students get an extra $10 off $75+ through Student Beans. Most single-pair sneaker purchases also qualify for free shipping, and Journeys’ 365-day return policy makes sale shopping risk-free.